Mud Flap Assembly Having Enlarged Flap Panels
Mud flap assemblies including a frame, a securing assembly and mud flap panels; the securing assembly enabling the frame to be secured to a hitch assembly having a shaft, for further attachment to a hitch receiver secured to a vehicle; the frame having a rear plate that includes a hitch opening for receiving the shaft of the hitch assembly. The frame is preferably configured to rest on a portion of a bumper of the vehicle to minimize vibration of the frame during use. The mud flap assembly preferably including a pair of stops that are preferably adjustable and are constructed and arranged to rest against the bumper. The mud flap assembly preferably includes enlarged mud flap panels and mud flap support members for additional support of the enlarged mud flap panels. Methods of installing mud flap assemblies are also disclosed.
The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/322,379, filed Jul. 2, 2014, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTIONMud flap assemblies, particularly, hitch-mounted mud flap assemblies including a frame interconnected to a hitch assembly that can be interconnected to a hitch receiver proximate a bumper of a vehicle. The preferred frame is designed to rest on a portion of the bumper to minimize vibration of the frame while in use on a vehicle. In preferred embodiments, the frame includes a pair of stop assemblies. The stop assemblies are preferably adjustable and are preferably constructed and arranged to rest against the bumper when the mud flap assembly is secured to the hitch assembly and the combination mud flap assembly and hitch assembly is attached to the hitch receiver. The hitch receiver is attached to the vehicle proximate the vehicle's bumper. The mud flap assemblies may also include exhaust ventilation apertures and/or protective heat shields. Methods of installing mud flap assemblies are also disclosed.
DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ARTTrucks and other vehicles are frequently used to haul trailers that transport boats, snow mobiles, four wheelers, motorcycles, golf carts and the like. Significant investments are made in such recreational equipment and the owners generally strive to protect their investment in this equipment by preventing any damage to such equipment that might occur during transport. Mud flaps are frequently used to prevent mud, gravel and other debris from being kicked up by the rear tires of the hauling vehicle that could otherwise damage or soil the trailer and the equipment being transported.
Typical mud flap assemblies often include a laterally extending beam positioned along the rear of the vehicle and two mud flap panels extending downward therefrom proximate the rear tires. Frequently, such mud flap assemblies are mounted to a hitch receiver of the vehicle. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,076,842 (Knoer); U.S. Pat. No. 6,179,311 (Larkin); U.S. Pat. No. 6,375,223 (Kirckof); and U.S. Pat. No. 7,931,302 (Vaughn).
The present invention provides improvements that address limitations associated with the prior art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONPreferred mud flap assemblies for attachment to hitch assemblies will preferably include a frame, a securing assembly, and two flap panels. The frame will preferably include a rear plate, a top plate and two longitudinal ends. The top plate is generally perpendicular to the rear plate and the rear plate having a hitch opening, wherein a shaft or interceptor portion of the ball mount of the hitch assembly, also called a hitch tongue, can be threaded through the hitch opening and secured to the frame with the securing assembly. Each of the respective flap panels can be separately secured to the frame proximate one of the respective longitudinal ends of the frame. Enlarged flap panels are preferably provided to mud flap assemblies to enhanced protection for trailers pulled behind these assemblies from rocks and debris flying up behind vehicles to which the trailers are attached. The hitch assembly will preferably be a commercially available hitch assembly including a ball mount interconnected with a shaft or hitch tongue that is securable within a hitch receiver to attach the mud flap assembly to a vehicle proximate a rear bumper of the vehicle; the rear bumper preferably having a top surface and a rear surface. The frame will preferably include a pair of stop assemblies, one of which is located proximate each of the respective longitudinal ends of the frame. When the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle, the respective stop assemblies will preferably be engaged with the rear surface of the bumper. The mud flap assembly may also include a protective piece that can have an adhesive back or the like to allow it to be secured to the bumper proximate the position where the respective stop assembly bumper cap is projected to engage the bumper. The protective piece can be positioned such that one of the respective stop assemblies will contact the protective piece when the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle such that the protective piece minimizes abrasions to the bumper caused by the respective stop assembly.
Preferred mud flap assembly embodiments are configured for attachment to a hitch assembly, and the hitch assembly is preferably configured for attachment to a hitch receiver proximate a bumper of a vehicle, wherein the bumper has a top surface and a rear surface and the hitch assembly has a shaft for engagement with the hitch receiver. Further preferred mud flap assemblies include a frame, a securing assembly and two mud flap panels. The frame has two longitudinal ends, a rear plate and a top plate, wherein the top plate is generally perpendicular to the rear plate and the top plate includes a support flange that can engage the top surface of the bumper. Each of the respective mud flap panels is secured to the frame proximate the respective longitudinal ends. The hitch assembly is preferably adjustably secured to the frame by the securing assembly such that when the shaft is engaged with the hitch receiver to create a first point of contact between the mud flap assembly and the vehicle, there will also be a second point of contact between the mud flap assembly and the vehicle. This second point of contact is preferably between the support flange or support flange elements and the top surface of the bumper of the vehicle. In further preferred embodiments, mud flap assemblies described and claimed herein will have additional points of contact between the mud flap assembly and the vehicle when the respective stop assemblies come into contact with the rear surface of the bumper. These points of contact help to stabilize the respective mud flap assemblies with respect to the vehicle so as to minimize the degree to which the frames of the respective mud flap assemblies vibrate and move independently of the vehicle.
The present invention includes mud flap assemblies, particularly, hitch-mounted mud flap assemblies including a frame, which can be interconnected to a hitch assembly that can be interconnected to a hitch receiver proximate a bumper of a vehicle. Various preferred mud flap assemblies include a frame, a securing assembly and two mud flap panels; the frame having two longitudinal ends and a rear plate, the rear plate including a hitch opening, spaced between the respective longitudinal ends, for receiving the shaft of the hitch assembly. One preferred frame is designed to rest on a portion of the bumper to minimize vibration of the frame and movement of the frame independent of the vehicle to which it is secured, while in use on the vehicle. Such a frame will preferably include a top plate including at least one support flange, the top plate being generally perpendicular to the rear plate. The mud flap assembly will preferably include a pair of stops or stop assemblies positioned proximate the respective longitudinal ends. Preferred stop assemblies are adjustable and are constructed and arranged to rest against the bumper when the mud flap assembly is secured to the hitch assembly and the combination mud flap assembly and hitch assembly is attached to the hitch receiver. Various mud flap assemblies may also include exhaust ventilation apertures and/or protective heat shields, as desired.
Disclosed embodiments include a mud flap assembly for attachment to a hitch assembly; the hitch assembly being attachable to a hitch receiver attached to a vehicle, preferably a pickup truck, proximate a bumper of the vehicle. The bumper will preferably have a rear surface and the hitch assembly will preferably have a shaft for engagement with the hitch receiver. Various mud flap assemblies will preferably have a frame, a securing assembly and two mud flap panels. The frame has two longitudinal ends and a rear plate. The rear plate includes a hitch opening spaced between the respective longitudinal ends for receiving the shaft of the hitch assembly. The securing assembly will preferably have two elongated members that can be adjustably secured to the frame and adjustably secured to one another to engage the shaft and thereby secure the hitch assembly to the frame. In preferred embodiments, the frame will include a pair of stops, one of which is located proximate each of the respective longitudinal ends of the frame; wherein the respective stops extend away from the frame, toward the bumper, such that the respective stops can engage the rear surface of the bumper when the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle. In preferred embodiments, the frame will include a pair of stop assemblies and each of which includes a stop, a protective cap that is engageable with the respective stop such that the respective protective cap will come into contact with the bumper when the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle. In preferred embodiments the mud flap assembly will include a pair of adjustable stop assemblies. Each of the respective stop assemblies includes a stop that extends away from adjacent parts of the frame toward the bumper, such that the respective stops can engage the rear surface of the bumper when the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle.
The respective mud flap panels are preferably separately secured to the frame proximate one of the respective longitudinal ends. The frame of preferred mud flap assemblies will include a rear plate and a top plate; wherein the top plate is generally perpendicular to the rear plate and the top plate includes a support flange. The securing assembly is configured to allow the hitch assembly to be adjustably secured to the frame so that when the hitch assembly is secured to the frame and to the vehicle to provide a first point of contact between the mud flap assembly and the vehicle, the support flange can be engaged with a top surface of the bumper to provide a second point of contact between the mud flap assembly and the vehicle. In preferred embodiments, the hitch opening of the frame has a configuration selected from the group consisting of: 1) a generally U-shaped opening partially surrounded by adjacent elements of the frame; and 2) an opening completely surrounded by adjacent elements of the frame. The frame further includes a plurality of frame attachment openings proximate the hitch opening; wherein connectors can adjustably connect the pair of elongated members of the securing assembly to the frame and to one another to secure the shaft of the hitch assembly to the frame. In alternate embodiments of the mud flap assembly, the frame includes an enlarged opening over which a mounting plate having a hitch opening can be secured. The mounting plate id secured to the frame and the securing assembly is secured to the mounting plate and the shaft of the hitch assembly is secured to the mounting plate by the securing assembly. The mounting plate is a removable adjustment plate defining a hitch opening. The adjustment plate includes a plurality of plate openings to enhance the adjustment capabilities of the securing assembly. In further alternate embodiments of the mud flap assembly, the frame has a structure that is selected from the group consisting of: 1) a unitary structure; and 2) a multi-part structure in which a plurality of parts are interconnected to form a frame assembly. The multi-part frame structure may be adjustable in length.
In preferred embodiments, each of the respective enlarged mud flap panels is secured to the frame proximate opposite longitudinal ends of the frame and so that the outer edge of the respective flap panel extends at least about 2 inches beyond the end of the respective longitudinal end of the frame, preferably from about 2 inches to about 12 inches. The enlarged mud flap panels are preferably secured to the frame so that the inside edges of the respective flap panels a separated by a distance of from about 3 to about 5 inches. In other preferred embodiments, each the respective mud flap panels will be secured to the frame in a manner in which each of the respective enlarged mud flap panels extends above the top plate proximate respective longitudinal ends of the frame at least about two inches, preferably from about 2 inches to about 12 inches. In further preferred embodiments, the mud flap assembly will include at least one mud flap support member that is bent so that an included angle between opposing ends of an inside surface of the mud flap support member, which engages the respective mud flap, will be from about 175 to about 179 degrees. In preferred embodiments, the mud flap assembly will include two mud flap support members that are bent in this manner and secured to the frame in a manner in which the support member sandwiches the flap panel against the frame. The slight bend in the inside surface of the support member acts to minimize the degree to which the inside edge of the flap panel springs out away from the frame.
These and various other advantages and features of novelty which characterize the present invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a better understanding of the invention, its advantages and objects obtained by its use, reference should be made to the drawings which form a further part hereof, and to the accompanying descriptive matter, in which there is illustrated and described a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
In the drawings, in which corresponding reference numerals and letters indicate corresponding parts of the various embodiments throughout the several views, and in which the various embodiments generally differ only in the manner described and/or shown, but otherwise include corresponding parts; and in which reference is occasionally made either to the “rear” or to the “front” of the mud flap assembly or to a frame of the present mud flap assembly in a manner that is consistent with the orientation of the mud flap assembly or to a frame of the present mud flap assembly when it is secured to a vehicle as envisioned, so that the rear of a mud flap assembly or of a frame of the present invention will be consistent with what is seen when one is looking at the rear of such a vehicle when the mud flap assembly or such a frame is attached to such a vehicle as herein envisioned and the front of such a mud flap assembly or such a frame will be the view of such a mud flap assembly or such a frame that can be seen from seen from the front of the vehicle when such mud flap assembly or such frame is attached to the vehicle as envisioned herein and the vehicle does not obstruct the view;
23B, 23C, and 24A, showing a bend in each of the inner mud flap support members 1032a, 1032b;
Referring now to the drawings, the mud flap assemblies 10, 110, 210, 410, 510, 1010, 1110, 1210 disclosed herein can be secured to a hitch assembly 70, which can be secured to a hitch receiver 76 at the rear of a vehicle V, proximate the rear bumper B, to protect an apparatus being towed by the vehicle from being damaged due to rocks, debris and mud kicked up from under the rear tires of the vehicle. Preferred embodiments are configured to be easily removed and reinstalled, as needed.
Preferred mud flap assemblies 10, 110, 210, 410, 510, 1010, 1110, 1210 are designed to be attached to a hitch assembly 70 preferably having a ball mount 71 and then to a vehicle V having a rear bumper B and a hitch receiver 76 proximate the rear bumper B. With many vehicles, the rear bumper B has a step or a top surface S and the hitch assembly will preferably have a shaft or hitch tongue 72, which is preferably interconnected to the ball mount 71 for engagement with the hitch receiver 76. The preferred mud flap assemblies 10, 110, 210, 410, 510, 1010, 1110, 1210 preferably include a frame 12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 1012, a securing bracket or securing assembly 84, 284, 484, 584, 1084 and two mud flap panels or flap panels 50a, 50b, 150a, 150b, 250a, 250b, 450a, 450b, 550a, 550b, 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b. The frame 12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712, 1012, preferably has two longitudinal ends 14a, 14b, 114a, 114b, 214a, 214b, 313a, 314b, 414a, 414b, 514a, 514b, 614a, 614b, 714a, 714b, 1014a, 1014b, 1114a, 1114b, 1214a, 1214b, a rear plate 30, 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630a, 630b, 630c, 730a, 730b, 730c, 1030 and a top plate 40, 140, 240, 340, 440, 540, 640a, 640b, 640c, 740a, 740b, 740c, 1040 wherein the top plate is generally oriented perpendicularly to the rear plate. In preferred embodiments, as shown in
Each of the respective mud flap panels 50a, 50b, 150a, 150b, 250a, 250b, 450a, 450b, 550a, 550b, 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b can be secured to any frame 12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712, 812, 1012, proximate respective longitudinal ends 14a, 14b, 114a, 114b, 214a, 214b, 313a, 314b, 414a, 414b, 514a, 514b, 612a, 614b, 714a, 714b, 814a, 814b, 1014a, 1014b,1114a, 1114b, 1214a, 1214b of the respective frame 12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712, 812, 1012. In one preferred embodiment, as illustrated in
Preferred mud flap assemblies 10, 110, 210, 410 of the present invention, shown in
The preferred mud flap assemblies 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 610 of the present invention shown in
At first and second ends 14a, 14b of the frame 12, proximate the tires of the vehicle (not shown); flap panels 50a, 50b are secured to and extend downwardly from the frame 12. The flap panels 50a, 50b generally block dirt, debris or rocks kicked-up by the tires from damaging the apparatus being towed by the vehicle V via the hitch assembly 70. Flap panels 50a, 50b disclosed herein are preferably made of flexible material such as masticated rubber or the like. Preferably, the flap panels 50a, 50b are secured to the frame 12 with nuts 52a, bolts 52b and washers 52c.
To further protect the apparatus being towed (not shown) by the mud flap assembly 10, preferred frames 12 will be configured such that the top plate 40 generally mirrors the curvature of the bumper B to minimize the space between the top plate 40 and the bumper B such that rocks and other debris (not shown) cannot easily escape upwardly from the mud flap assembly 10.
Preferred mud flap assemblies 10 further include at least one stop 16a, 16b proximate each end 14a, 14b of the frame 12. Each stop 16a, 16b is arranged and configured to provide another contact point between the mud flap assembly 10 and the bumper B of the vehicle V. In preferred embodiments, each stop 16a, 16b is arranged and configured such that when the stop 16a, 16b contacts the bumper B and the hitch tongue 72 is inserted within a hitch receiver opening 77 of the hitch receiver 76, hitch tongue 72 apertures 74 and hitch receiver 76 apertures 78 are aligned. It is believed that such a configuration provides faster and easier installation of the mud flap assembly 10. Optionally, the mud flap assembly 10 can also include a protective piece 21a, 21b that can be securable to the bumper B such that each stop 16a, 16b contacts one respective protective piece 21a, 21b and prevents and marring or potential damage to the bumper B due to contact with the respective bumper cap 17a, 17b. The protective piece 21a, 21b can be vinyl static-cling material, an adhesive sticker or the like.
Preferred mud flap assemblies 10 are adjustable so that they can accommodate many types of vehicles and hitch assembly 70 configurations. In preferred embodiments, the frame 12 includes a hitch opening 18 and four slots 20 proximate the hitch opening 18. Referring now also to
The two long carriage bolts 88a are used to secure the respective clamp halves 86a, 86b to one another on opposite sides of a hitch tongue 72, when the securing assembly 84 is secured to the hitch tongue 72. The respective clamp halves 86a, 86b are preferably pieces cut from an aluminum extrusion (not shown). The aluminum extrusion is preferably a 20 foot extrusion and the piece are preferably cut from the extrusion with a band saw in widths of from about 1.0 to about 1.5 inches, preferably about 1.25 inches, to create side surfaces 97 above and below three channels 89, 91, 89 in each of the respective clamp halves 86a, 86b. Each clamp half 86a, 86b will preferably have a left side 86a′, 86b′ and a right side 86a″, 86b″ that are mirror images of one another and each of the respective sides 86a′, 86b′, 86a″, 86b″ will each preferably include an aperture 87 for receiving the short carriage bolts 94a, so that the short carriage bolts 94a can secure the respective clamp halves 86a, 86b to the frame 12. In preferred embodiments the apertures 87 will be machined, stamped or punched, preferably punched into the respective clamp halves 86a, 86b. Each side 86a′, 86b′, 86a″, 86b″ will preferably have a long carriage bolt receiving opening 89, preferably a channel 89 that extends from one side surface 97 of the respective clamp half 86a, 86b to another. The long carriage bolt receiving opening channel 89 will preferably have a cross-sectional shape that is generally square so as to receive the shank portion 88a″ of the long carriage bolts 88a, so that the nuts 88b can be easily tightened against the respective clamp half 86a, 86b with a single wrench when the squared off shank portion 88a″ resides within the respective channel 89. Each of the respective clamp halves 86a, 86b preferably have a central channel 91 at least partial defined by a flange 96a, 96b. The respective flanges 96a, 96b extend upward from the base of each of the respective clamp halves 86a, 86b expanding the area of the respective side surfaces 97, adjacent to the respective long carriage bolt receiving channels 89, against which the heads 88a′ of the long carriage bolts 88a and the washers 88c and/or nuts 88b that secure the respective long carriage bolts 88a to the respective clamp halves 86a, 86b, will press when the securing assembly 84 is secured to the hitch tongue 72. This extended surface area is believed to reduce the stress that is placed upon the respective long carriage bolts 88a when the securing assembly 84 is secured to the hitch tongue 72. It will be appreciated that the respective channels 89, 91, 89 allow the die (not shown) used to make the aluminum extrusion (not shown) from which the respective clamp halves 86a, 86b are cut, to be simplified, which greatly reduces to cost of production for the respective clamp halves 86a, 86b. Creating channels as opposed to machining a channel or an aperture from top to bottom in the respective side surfaces 97 of each of the respective clamp halves 86a, 86b is believed to significantly reduce to cost per piece of the respective clamp halves.
The clamp halves 86a, 86b are secured to the frame 12 with short carriage bolts 94a with nuts 94b and washers 94c. The short carriage bolts 94a pass through slots 20 in the frame 12 and apertures 87 in the clamp halves 86a, 86b (see, for example,
The frame 12 also preferably includes at least one exhaust opening 22 that is aligned with a corresponding aperture 54a in the respective flap panel 50b. Each flap panel 50a, 50b may include one or more outlines 54b for a user to trace and cut an aperture 54a in the flap panel 50b, if desired. It is noted that there is no outline proximate 54a, because the exhaust aperture 54a has already been cut where the outline would be located. The outline may be formed by a marking, scored edge or the like. The exhaust openings in the frame 12 and exhaust opening 54a respective flap panel 50a, 50b are preferably aligned proximate the vehicle exhaust pipe P so that the mud flap assembly 10 allows for suitable ventilation of hot exhaust away from the vehicle V. Such an exhaust opening 22 is particularly beneficial for models of trucks, such as the Dodge 1500 model truck, which includes an exhaust pipe that would be located close to the flap panel 50b. The frame 12 may also include decorative apertures 24a, 24b, 24c 24d, 24e textures or designs, as desired.
In preferred embodiments, the frame 12 further includes a bent lip 26a, 26b proximate the flap panels 50a, 50b, which allows the respective flap panels 50a, 50b to flex upwardly as the vehicle moves forward and air resistance pushes the bottoms of the respective flap panels away from the vehicle when the mud flap assembly 10 is secured to the vehicle. The bent lips 26a, 26b also provide greater strength to the respective rear plates 30a, 30b to resist horizontal deformation. Corresponding bent lips 126a, 126b, 226a, 226b, 326a, 326b, 426a, 426b, 526a, 526b, 626a, 626b, 726a, 726b, 826a, 826b, 1026a, 1026b, 1126a, 1126b, 1226a, 1226b are also provided in each of the other respective embodiments described below.
One alternate mud flap assembly 110 is illustrated in
Referring now also to
In this embodiment, there are four support flanges 242a, 242b extending from the frame 212. The support flanges 242a are adjustable laterally along the length of the frame 212 and can be secured within a plurality of apertures 241 of the frame 212 with a bolt 245b, washers 245c, lock washers 245d and nuts 245e or the like. Support flanges 242b can alternatively be used and are adjustable in height to accommodate many different vehicles by securing a bolt 245a within slots 234 in the frame 212 and a pair of apertures 244a, 244b the lower portion 242d of support flange 242b with bolts 245a, flat washers 245c, lock washers 245g and nuts 245h or the like.
In this embodiment, the support flanges 242b are adjustable in that they include a plurality of adjustment apertures 244a, 244b that can be aligned with corresponding frame apertures 234 to selectively position the respective support flange 242b at a desired height once secured in place with a bolt 245a, flat washer 245c, lock washer 245g and nut 245h, for example (see also, for example,
At first and second ends 214a, 214b of the frame 212, proximate the tires of the vehicle (not shown); flap panels 250a, 250b are secured to and extend downwardly from the frame 212. The flap panels 250a, 250b generally block any dirt, debris or rocks kicked-up by the tires from damaging the trailer and apparatus being towed by the vehicle (not shown). The flap panels 250a, 250b are secured to the frame 212, for example, with nuts 252a, bolts 252b and washers 252c.
As with previously discussed embodiments, the mud flap assembly 210 of
The mud flap assembly 210 is also preferably further adjustable in that the frame 212 includes a hitch opening 218 and four slots 220 proximate the hitch opening 218. As with prior embodiments, a securing assembly or securement bracket 284 is preferably used to secure the shaft or hitch tongue 72 of the hitch assembly 70 to the frame 212 (see also,
The frame 212 can also include at least one exhaust opening 222 that is aligned with a corresponding aperture 254a in the respective flap panel 250b. Each flap panel 250a, 250b may include one or more outlines 254b for a user to trace and cut exhaust openings in the flap panel, if desired. The exhaust openings 222 in the frame 212 and exhaust opening 254a in the respective flap panel 250b are preferably aligned proximate the vehicle exhaust pipe P (see also,
Now referring also to
This frame 312 is also equipped with a flexible flap 347, which can be used with any of the frames disclosed herein. The flexible flap is designed to cover an access opening 323 which can generally prevent rocks, debris and mud from flying through the access opening when the wheels of the vehicle cause them to fly up from underneath the vehicle and potentially come through any of the access openings 323. It will be appreciated that the access openings 323 can be many shapes and sizes. It will also be appreciated that the flap 347 may be made of any flexible materials available in the marketplace and also, in alternate embodiments, of materials that are not especially flexible, but that can be secured to the front of the frame proximate one access opening 323 by a hinge or a plurality of hinges and then hinged so that it can cover the access opening 323 and yet allow access to a hand H of a user, in a manner that is similar to that shown in
Now also referring to
As with previous embodiments, at first and second ends 414a, 414b of the frame 412, proximate the tires of the vehicle V (not shown), flap panels 450a, 450b are secured to and extend downwardly from the frame 412. Preferably, the flap panels 450a, 450b are secured to the frame 412 with nuts 452a, bolts 452b and washers 452c or the like.
The mud flap assembly 410 further includes at least one stop assembly 415a, 415b proximate each end 414a, 414b of the frame 412. Each stop assembly 415a, 415b preferably includes a stop 416a, 416b connected to a cap 417a, 417b. Each stop assembly 415a, 415b is arranged and configured to provide another contact point between the mud flap assembly 410 and the bumper B of the vehicle V (see also,
As with previous embodiments, the mud flap assembly 410 is adjustable such that the mud flap assembly 410 can accommodate many types of vehicles and hitch configurations. The frame 412 includes a generally U-shaped hitch opening 418, and four slots 420 proximate the hitch opening 418. A securing assembly 484 is preferably used to secure the shaft or hitch tongue 72 to the frame 412 (see also, for example,
The frame 412 also preferably comprises at least one exhaust opening 422 that is aligned with a corresponding aperture 454a in the respective flap panel 450b. The flap panel 450b proximate the exhaust pipe may include one or more outlines 454b for a user to trace and cut additional exhaust openings in the flap panel 450b, if desired. Each outline 454b may be formed by a marking, scored edge or the like. The one or more exhaust openings 422 in the frame 412 and respective flap panel 450b preferably aligned proximate the vehicle exhaust pipe (see also,
In preferred embodiments, the frame 412 further includes a bent lip 426a, 426b at first and second ends 414a, 414b proximate the respective flap panels 450a, 450b such that the flap panels 450a, 450b can flex upwardly. The bent lip 426a, 426b will also help the frames to resist forces that tend to make the frame 412 bend along the frame's length.
Referring now specifically to
In preferred embodiments, when the frame 12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712, 812, 1012 is secured to the vehicle V, the shaft 72 of the hitch assembly 70 can be secured to the hitch receiver 76 when the securing assembly 84, 284, 484, 584 is loosely attached to the frame 12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712, 812, 1012 and the frame 512 via the mounting plate 519 when the mounting plate 519 is attached to the frame 512, as shown in
After the nuts 94b, 294b, 494b, 594b are tightened against the lower of the two clamp halves 86b, 286b, 486b, 586b to tightly secure the shaft or hitch tongue 72 within the central clamp halve opening 90, 290, 490, 590, downward force can be placed on respective the respective frame 12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712, 812 and/or the respective support flanges 42, 142, 242, 342, 442, 542, 642, 742, 842 so that the support flanges are in contact with and engaged with the bumper B, because the nuts 94b, 294b, 494b, 94b on the short carriage bolts 94a, 294a, 494a, 594a are still loosely secured in order to allow the short carriage bolts 94a, 294a, 494a, 594a to slide up and down within the respective slots 20, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620, 720, 820 to enable the securing assembly 84, 284, 484, 584 to adjust its vertical orientation to the respective frame or mounting plate in a position that allows the support flanges 42, 142, 242, 342, 442, 542, 642, 742, 842 to be in contact and engaged with the bumper B. The nuts 94b, 294b, 494b, 594b are then turned around the short carriage bolts 94a, 294a, 494a, 594a to tighten the respective clamp halves 86a, 86b, 286a, 286b, 486a, 486b, 586a, 586b to the respective frame 12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 612, 712, 812, 1012 or the respective mounting plate 519 (in the embodiment shown in
Now also referring to
The universal frame 512 preferably includes an enlarged opening 518 and a mounting plate 519 that has four slots 520 for securing the securing assembly 584. The slots 520 are proximate a hitch opening 518a in the mounting plate 519 through which a hitch tongue or a shaft 72 of a hitch assembly 70, similar to that shown in
As with prior embodiments, the securing assembly 584 (
The frame 512 can also include at least one exhaust opening 522 that is aligned with a corresponding aperture 554a in the respective flap panel 550b. Each flap panel 550a, 550b may include one or more outlines 554b for a user to trace and cut additional exhaust openings in the flap panels 550a, 550b, if desired. In alternate embodiments, the outlines can be scored, perforated or the like, to make it easier for the user to remove the outlined material to make a suitable aperture to correspond with an exhaust opening 522 in the frame 512. The at least one exhaust opening 522 in the frame 512 and respective flap panel 550b is preferably generally aligned proximate the vehicle exhaust pipe P so that the mud flap assembly 510 ventilates hot exhaust away from the vehicle V. The frame 512 may also include decorative apertures 524a, 524b, 524c, 524d, and 524e as desired that compliment the decorative aspects of the exhaust opening 522. For some vehicle models, a second exhaust opening (not shown) can be preferably provided, preferably opposite the first exhaust opening 522. The exhaust opening can have any shape, but the decorative shape of a circle is preferred in order to provide continuity with the decorative shape of the proximate decorative apertures 524a, 524b, 524c, 524d, and 524e in the frame 512.
At first and second ends 514a, 514b of the frame 512, proximate the tires (not shown) of the vehicle V (not shown); the flap panels 550a, 550b are secured to and extend downwardly from the frame 512. The flap panels 550a, 550b generally block any dirt, debris or rocks kicked-up by the tires from damaging the trailer and apparatus (not shown) being towed by the vehicle via the hitch assembly (see also, hitch assembly 70 and related disclosure). As with previous embodiments, flap panels 550a, 550b are preferably made of flexible material such as masticated rubber or the like. Preferably, the flap panels 550a, 550b are secured to the frame 512 with nuts 552a, bolts 552b and washers 552c.
The frame 512 also includes a top plate 540 including one or more apertures 541 for the optional securing of a support flange piece or pieces (not shown), similar to the support flange piece 242a, 242b shown in
The universal frame 512 can also have stops (not shown) that are provided by stop assemblies (not shown) of the type that can be secured to the top plate 540, through apertures 541 in the manner in which stop assemblies 415a, 415b are secured to the universal frame 412 as shown in
The frame 612 is preferably sized to generally span the bumper B of a vehicle V (not shown) in a manner similar to that of other embodiments disclosed herein (see for example,
Referring now also to
The center portion 713a and two side portions 613b, 613c of the multi-piece frame 712 can also be secured together in relation to one another in this series of different configurations, by a plurality of fasteners 729b that pass through corresponding apertures 743a, 743b, 743c in the respective rear plates 730a, 730b and 730c of the respective center and side portions 713a, 713b, 713c so that each of two different fasteners 729b that secure the rear plate 730a of the center portion 713a to each of the rear plates 730b, 730c of the respective side portions 713b, 713c, passes through an aperture 743a in the rear plate 740a of the center portion 713a and also through one of the apertures 743b, 743c in one of the respective rear plates 730b, 730c of the respective side portions 713b, 713c, so that each of two different fasteners 729b secures one of the respective side portions 713b, 713c to the center portion 713a in each of the five possible configurations, each of which has a different length.
Referring now also to
One preferred method of installing the mud flap assemblies 10, 210, 410, 510, 1010, 1110, 1210 includes first inserting the long carriage bolts 88a, 288a, 488a, 588a through the openings in respective clamp halves 86a, 86b, 286a, 286b, 486a, 486b, 586a, 586b. The long carriage bolts 88a, 288a, 488a, 588a are preferably secured to the clamp halves 86a, 86b, 286a, 286b, 486a, 486b, 586a, 586b with flat washers 88c, 288c, 488c, 588c, and preferably lock washers 245d in certain embodiments, and nuts 88b, 288b, 488b, 588b. Next, the flat surface formed by the securing assembly 84, 284, 484, 584, 1084 is aligned with the frame 12, 212, 412, 512, 1012 so the nuts 88b, 288b, 488b, 588b on the long carriage bolts 88a, 288a, 488a, 588a are facing the ground. The clamp halves 86a, 86b, 286a, 286b, 486a, 486b, 586a, 586b are then loosely attached to the frame 12, 212, 412, 512, 1012 preferably with short carriage bolts 94a, 294a, 494a, 594a, flat washers 94c, 294c, 494c, 594c, lock washers 494d, 594d and nuts 94b, 294b, 494b, 594b so that the nuts are facing the front of the frame 12, 212, 412, 512, 1012 and the vehicle V. The short carriage bolts 94a, 294a, 494a, 594a are preferably left somewhat loose at this stage of installation. Then, the hitch tongue 72 of the hitch assembly 70 is threaded through the hitch opening 18, 118, 218, 318, 418, 518a, 618, 718, 818 in the respective frame 12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 612, 712, 812, 1012 or mounting plate 519 and the clamp opening 90, 290, 490, 590 between the two clamp halves 86a, 86b, 286a, 286b, 486a, 486b, 586a, 586b. The combination mud flap assembly 10, 210, 410, 510, 1010, 1110, 1210 and hitch assembly 70 is then lifted up so as to enable the hitch tongue 72 to be inserted into the hitch receiver opening 77. At this stage, all of the nuts are engaged with the respective carriage bolts, but they are only finger tightened so that the shaft 72 is moveable or repositionable with respect to the securing assembly and the securing assembly is moveable or repositionable with respect to the respective frame. The shaft or hitch tongue 72 is then inserted into and secured within the hitch receiver opening 77 of the hitch receiver 76 that is attached to the vehicle V. The hitch tongue 72 is secured within the hitch receiver 76 with a hitch pin 79a that is inserted into a hitch receiver aperture 78 in the hitch receiver 76 when the aperture 78 is aligned with a hitch tongue aperture 74 in the hitch tongue 72 and the hitch pin 79a is then secured within the hitch tongue aperture 74 by a cotter pin 79b that is inserted into a cotter pin aperture 79c at the distal end 79d of the hitch pin 79a when the hitch pin 79a has passed through the hitch receiver aperture 78 on the near side of hitch receiver 76, the hitch tongue aperture 74 and through a second hitch receiver aperture (not shown) on the opposite side of the hitch receiver 76. When the hitch pin 79a secures the hitch tongue 72 within the hitch receiver 76, the cotter pin aperture 79c will reside outside of the receiver opening 77 so as to be accessible for the insertion of the cotter pin 79b.
In preferred embodiments, the support flange(s) 42, 142, 242a, 242b, 442a, 442b, 1042 are positioned on the bumper step or shelf portion S of the bumper B and the frame 12, 112, 212, 412, 1012 is pushed tightly against the rear surface of the bumper B until both of the stops 16a, 16b or bumper caps 17a, 17b, 217a, 217b, 417a, 417b, 617a, 617b, 717a, 717b, 1017a, 1017b are against the rear surface R of the bumper B. The securing assembly 84, 284, 484, 584, 1084 is then tightened around the hitch tongue 72 , by tightening the nuts 88b, 288b, 488b, 588b to the long carriage bolts 88a, 288a, 488a, 588a. Downward pressure is then placed upon the top plate 40, 140, 240, 340, 440, 540, 640a, 740a, 840, 1040 proximate the support flanges 42, 142, 242a, 242b, 442a, 442b, 642, 1042 so that the short carriage bolts can move downward within the respective slots, so that the securing assembly, which is secured to the hitch tongue 72, can also adjust downward with respect to the respective frame and thereby allowing the respective support flanges 42, 142, 242a, 242b, 442a, 442b, 642. 1042 to engage with the top of the bumper B. The next step is to tighten the nuts 94b, 294b, 494b, 594b to the respective short carriage bolts 94a, 294a, 494a, 594a of the securing assembly 84. Then, the nuts on all four short carriage bolts 94a, 294a, 494a, 594a are torqued to about 32 ft. lbs.
The flap panels 50a, 50b, 150a, 150b, 250a, 250b, 450a, 450b, 550a, 550b, 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b can be secured to the respective frame 12, 112, 212, 412, 512, 1012 by bolting the flap panels to the respective frame 12, 112, 212, 412, 512, 1012 with bolts 52a, 152a, 252a, 452a, 552a, flat washers 52b, 252b, 452b, 552b, optionally lock washers, and nuts 52c, 252c, 452c, 552c (see also, for example,
It will be understood that alternate embodiments of the present mud flap assemblies and variants thereof, for example, those utilizing frames 312, 612, 712, 812, 1012, as discussed and illustrated herein, can be installed in a similar manner and have similar securing assemblies and adjustable stops.
Installation of embodiments that are more adjustable, or customizable, as shown in
In preferred embodiments, the stops 16b, 316a, 316b or the bumper caps 17b,117a,117b, 217a, 217b, 417a, 417b are tensioned against the rear surface R of the bumper B by placing force against the rear plate 30, 130, 230, 330, 430 of the frame 12, 112, 212, 312, 412 on both sides of the hitch assembly opening 18, 118, 218, 318, 418 when the hitch tongue 72 is secured to the hitch receiver 76 by the hitch pin 79a, but before the securing assembly 84, 184, 284, 384, 484 is tightened around the hitch assembly 70, in order to press the frame 12, 112, 212, 312, 412 and the stops 16b, 316a, 316b or bumper caps 17b,117a, 117b, 217a, 217b, 417a, 417b against the rear surface R of the bumper B and bend the frame 12, 112, 212, 312, 412 slightly and to create this tension. The support flange(s) 42, 142, 242a, 242b, 442a, 442b are also preferably tensioned against the top surface S of the bumper B by placing downward force upon the top surface S of the bumper B when the shaft 72 is secured to the hitch receiver 76 by the hitch pin 79a, but before the securing assembly 84, 184, 284, 384, 484 is tightened around the hitch assembly 70, in order to press the top plate 40, 140, 240, 340, 440 and the support flange(s) 42, 142, 242a, 242b, 442a, 442b against the top surface S of the bumper B and bend the frame 12, 112, 212, 312, 412 slightly and to create this tension.
The flap panels 50a, 50b, 150a, 150b, 250a, 250b, 450a, 450b, 550a, 550b, 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b are then positioned as generally illustrated indicated in
In various embodiments, for example those mud flap assemblies specifically designed for dual exhaust vehicles, preferred methods will further include cutting out a hole or exhaust aperture 54a, 154a, 254a, 454a, 554a in at least one flap panel 50a, 50b, 150a, 150b, 250a, 250b, 450a, 450b, 550a, 550b, 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b proximate the vehicle's V exhaust pipe P. Preferably, the flap panels 50a, 50b, 150a, 150b, 250a, 250b, 450a, 450b, 550a, 550b, 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b include one or more outlines 54b, 154b, 254b, 454b, 554b, as discussed above, for proper alignment of potential exhaust aperture(s) to the corresponding frame apertures 22, 122, 222, 322, 422, 522, 622, 722, 822, 1022.
Installation for embodiments including a frame 712 that is adjustable in length as illustrated in
Now referring also to
The frame 1012 preferably includes a hitch opening 1018. Slots are incorporated into the frame 1012 in a manner similar to the slots illustrated in frames 12, 112, 212, 312 and 412 shown in
As with prior embodiments, the securing assembly 584 (
The frame 1012 can also include at least one aperture or exhaust opening 1022 that is aligned with a corresponding aperture in the respective flap panel 1050b, 1150b, 1250b as illustrated in the embodiment of
As in other embodiments describe herein, frame 1012 preferably has bent lips 1026a, 1026b proximate the flap panels 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b which allows the respective flap panels 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b to flex upwardly as the vehicle moves forward and air resistance pushes the bottoms of the respective flap panels away from the vehicle when the mud flap assembly 1010 is secured to a vehicle. The bent lips 1026a, 1026b also provide greater strength to the respective rear plates 1030a, 1030b to resist horizontal deformation.
At first and second ends 1014a, 1014b of the frame 1012, proximate the tires (not shown) of the vehicle V (not shown), the flap panels 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b are secured to and extend downwardly from the frame 1012. The flap panels 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b generally block dirt, debris or rocks that may be kicked up by the tires from damaging the trailer and apparatus (not shown) being towed by the vehicle via the hitch assembly (see also, hitch assembly 70 and related disclosure). As with previous embodiments, flap panels 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b are preferably made of flexible material such as masticated rubber or the like. Preferably, the flap panels 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b are secured to the frame 1012 with nuts, bolts and washers as previously described herein.
The frame 1012 includes a top plate 1040 including one or more apertures for the optional securing of a support flange piece or pieces (not shown), similar to the support flange piece 242a, 242b shown in
The frame 1012 can also have stops (not shown) that are provided by stop assemblies (not shown) of the type that can be secured to the top plate 1040 through apertures in the manner in which stop assemblies 415a, 415b are secured to the universal frame 412 as shown in
The flap panel 1050a has an inner edge 1058a, an outer edge 1058c, and an upper edge 1058e ; likewise, the panel 1050b has an inner edge 1058b, an outer edge 1058d, and an upper edge 1058f. Similarly, the flap panel 1150a has an inner edge 1158a, an outer edge 1158c, and an upper edge 1158e ; the panel 1150b has an inner edge 1158b, an outer edge 1158d, and an upper edge 1158f ; flap panel 1250a has an inner edge 1258a, an outer edge 1258c, and an upper edge 1258e ; the panel 1250b has an inner edge 1258b, an outer edge 1258d, and an upper edge 1258f. The other flap panels illustrated herein also have corresponding inner, outer, and upper edges.
In many of the embodiments described herein, there is a generous distance between the inner edges of the flap panels. Although the drawings are not to be taken to scale, one can see the much greater distance illustrated between the respective inner edges of panels 50a and 50b of
As in other embodiments described herein, the flap panels 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b preferably are secured to and extend downwardly from the frame 1012. A variety of fasteners such as bolts 1052a, washers 1052b, and nuts 1052c can be utilized to secure the flap panels 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b to the frame 1012. The fasteners, and the various holes and apertures through which the fasteners attach, are preferably located toward the longitudinal ends 1014a, 1014b of the frame 1012, so as to avoid interference with additional structures such as the securing assembly, the hitch assembly or related components, and the like, as previously illustrated.
In many of the above embodiments, such an arrangement is sufficient. However, for extended flap panels such as the flap panels 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b, which extend inwardly so that the inner edges 1058a and 1058b, 1158a and 1158b, 1258a and 1258b of the flap panels 1050a and 1050b, 1150a and 1150b, 1250a and 1250b, respectively, are a shorter distance D1a, D1b, D1c apart, the securement arrangement, such as shown in
Preferably, panel support members 1032a, 1032b are not planar, but are bent so that the included angle is 90 degrees plus angle A2 as illustrated in
Preferably, support members 1032a, 1032b have a slight bend to an inside surface 1032a′, 1032b′, as illustrated in
The assembly is preferably held together by fasteners as described above. The flap panels 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b, support members 1032a, 1032b, and frame 1012 have apertures 1033a, 1033b, 1133a, 1133b, 1233a, 1233b through which bolts 1052a can pass. At apertures 1033a, 1133a, 1233a the bolts 1052a preferably pass through the support members 1032a, 1032b and the flap panels 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b, and the frame 1012, with washers 1052b and nuts 1052c applied. At apertures 1033b, 1133b, 1233b, however, the bolts 1052a preferably pass through the support members 1032a, 1032b and the flap panels 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b, but not the frame 1012. In some embodiments, the bent lips 1026a, 1026b may align with apertures 1033b, and having corresponding apertures in the frame at that location could be problematic; by configuring the bolts 1052a at these locations to pass through the support members 1032a, 1032b and the flap panels 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b, but not the frame 1012, the support members 1032a, 1032b can provide support for flap panels 1050a, 1050b, 1150a, 1150b, 1250a, 1250b in the vicinity of apertures 1033b, 1133b, 1233b without interference from the bent lips 1026a, 1026b to the fastener components such as washers 1052b and nuts 1052c. The support members 1032a, 1032b are then attached to the frame at apertures 1033a, 1133a, 1233a, but cantilever as they extend to the vicinity of apertures 1033b, 1133b, 1233b. The slight bend in the support members 1032a, 1032b as described above can aid in stabilizing the assembled structure in vicinity of apertures 1033b, 1133b, 1233b.
Now referring to mud flap assembly 1110 illustrated in
Now referring to mud flap assembly 1210 illustrated in
Mud flap assemblies 1010, 1110, 1210 provide for increased area of protection from damage to towed equipment by mud, gravel and other debris that can be kicked up by the rear tires of a vehicle. In particular, mud flap assemblies 1010, 1110, 1210 provide improved protection in the inner or central region near the hitch. Mud flap assembly 1110 also provides for increased protection near the sides of the vehicle, particularly useful for vehicles having dual wheels or a wide wheel base, which could otherwise kick up debris farther out to the side than other vehicles. Mud flap assembly 1210 provides for further protection for even a larger area near the sides of the vehicle. Panel support members, such as the example panel support members 1032a, 1032b, 1132c, 1132d, 1232c, 1232d disclosed herein can facilitate the improved protection in mud flap assemblies 1010, 1110, 1210 over a larger area compared with other mud flap assemblies described herein.
In preferred embodiments, the ground clearance for the flap panels 50a, 50b is about 4 to about 7 inches above the ground. The flap panels 50a, 50b may be trimmed after installation to achieve this preferred ground clearance, if necessary.
It is to be understood, however, that even though numerous characteristics and advantages of the present invention have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and function of the invention, the disclosure is illustrative only, and changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of shape, size and arrangement of parts within the principles of the invention to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed.
Claims
1. A mud flap assembly for attachment to a hitch assembly, the hitch assembly being attachable to a hitch receiver attached to a vehicle proximate a bumper of the vehicle; the bumper having a rear surface and the hitch assembly having a shaft for engagement with the hitch receiver; the mud flap assembly comprising:
- a frame, a securing assembly and two mud flap panels; the frame having two longitudinal ends and a rear plate; wherein the rear plate includes a hitch opening, spaced between the respective longitudinal ends, for receiving the shaft of the hitch assembly; the securing assembly including two elongated members that can be secured to the frame with adjustable fasteners and secured to one another with adjustable fasteners to engage the shaft and thereby secure the hitch assembly to the frame; wherein each the respective mud flap panels is secured to the frame proximate opposite longitudinal ends of the frame and extends at least about two inches beyond the respective longitudinal end.
2. The mud flap assembly of claim 1, the frame including a pair of stops, one of which is located proximate each of the respective longitudinal ends of the frame; wherein the respective stops extend away from the frame, toward the bumper, such that the respective stops can engage the rear surface of the bumper when the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle.
3. The mud flap assembly of claim 2, wherein the frame includes a pair of stop assemblies and each of the respective stops are a part of one of the respective stop assemblies; each of the stop assemblies further including a protective cap that is engageable with the respective stop such that the respective protective cap will come into contact with the bumper when the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle.
4. The mud flap assembly of claim 3, further comprising a protective piece secured to the bumper; wherein the protective piece can be positioned on the bumper such that one of the respective stop assemblies will contact the protective piece when the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle such that the protective piece can minimize abrasions to the bumper caused by the respective stop assembly.
5. The mud flap assembly of claim 1, wherein the mud flap assembly includes a pair of adjustable stop assemblies; each of the respective stop assemblies including a stop that extends away from adjacent parts of the frame toward the bumper, such that the respective stops can engage the rear surface of the bumper when the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle.
6. The mud flap assembly of claim 1, wherein the mud flap assembly further includes a pair of mud flap support members; wherein each of the respective mud flap panels are secured to the frame, sandwiched between the frame and one of the respective mud flap support members.
7. The mud flap assembly of claim 6, wherein at least one of the mud flap support members is bent so that an included angle between opposing ends of an inside surface of the mud flap support member, which engages the respective mud flap, is from about 175 to about 179 degrees.
8. The mud flap assembly of claim 1, wherein the bumper has a top surface and the frame includes a top plate having a support flange; wherein the top plate is generally perpendicular to the rear plate and the top plate includes a support flange; wherein the securing assembly allows the hitch assembly to be adjustably secured to the frame so that when the hitch assembly is secured to the frame and to the vehicle to provide a first point of contact between the mud flap assembly and the vehicle, the support flange can be engaged with the top surface of the bumper to provide a second point of contact between the mud flap assembly and the vehicle.
9. The mud flap assembly of claim 1, wherein the hitch opening has a configuration selected from the group consisting of: a generally U-shaped opening partially surrounded by adjacent elements of the frame; and an fully surrounded opening completely surrounded by adjacent elements of the frame; wherein the frame further includes a plurality of frame attachment openings proximate the hitch opening; wherein connectors can adjustably connect the pair of elongated members of the securing assembly to the frame and to one another to secure the shaft of the hitch assembly to the frame.
10. The mud flap assembly of claim 9, wherein the hitch opening is the primary hitch opening and the mud flap assembly further includes a removable adjustment plate defining a secondary hitch opening for attachment to the frame proximate the primary hitch opening; wherein the adjustment plate includes a plurality of plate openings to enhance the adjustment capabilities of the securing assembly.
11. The mud flap assembly of claim 1, wherein the securing assembly includes a first plurality of nuts and bolts that can secure the respective elongated members to the frame and a second plurality of nuts and bolts that can secure the respective elongated members to one another so as to secure the shaft of the hitch assembly to the frame.
12. The mud flap assembly of claim 9, wherein the plurality of frame attachment openings include a plurality of slots located proximate the hitch opening and the securing assembly includes a first plurality of nuts and bolts that can secure the respective elongated members to the frame proximate the hitch opening and a second plurality of nuts and bolts that can secure the respective elongated members to one another so as to secure the shaft of the hitch assembly to the frame.
13. The mud flap assembly of claim 1, wherein the frame has a structure that is selected from the group consisting of: a unitary structure; and a multi-part structure in which a plurality of parts are interconnected to form a frame assembly.
14. The mud flap assembly of claim 1, wherein the two elongated members can be separately, adjustably secured to the frame and separately, adjustably secured to one another to engage the shaft and thereby secure the hitch assembly to the frame.
15. The mud flap assembly of claim 1, wherein a distance that separates the respective mud flap panels from one another is from about 3 to about 5 inches.
16. The mud flap assembly of claim 1, wherein the frame has a top plate and each of the respective mud flap panels extends above the top plate proximate respective longitudinal ends of the frame at least about two inches.
17. A mud flap assembly for attachment to a hitch assembly, the hitch assembly being attachable to a hitch receiver attached to a vehicle proximate a bumper of the vehicle; the bumper having a top surface and a rear surface and the hitch assembly having a shaft for engagement with the hitch receiver; the mud flap assembly comprising:
- a frame, a securing assembly and two mud flap panels; the frame having two longitudinal ends, a rear plate and a top plate, wherein the top plate is generally perpendicular to the rear plate and the top plate includes a support flange; and wherein each of the respective mud flap panels can be separately secured to the frame proximate one of the respective longitudinal ends; and wherein the hitch assembly can be adjustably secured to the frame by the securing assembly such that when the shaft of the hitch assembly is engaged with the hitch receiver so as to provide a first point of contact between the mud flap assembly and the vehicle, the support flange of the top plate can be engaged with the top surface of the bumper to give the mud flap assembly a second point of contact with the vehicle; wherein each of the respective mud flap panels extends above the top plate proximate respective longitudinal ends of the frame at least about two inches.
18. The mud flap assembly of claim 17, wherein each of the respective mud flap panels is secured to the frame proximate opposite longitudinal ends of the frame and extends at least about two inches beyond the end of the respective longitudinal end.
19. The mud flap assembly of claim 17, wherein a distance that separates the respective mud flap panels from one another is from about 3 to about 5 inches.
20. The mud flap assembly of claim 17, the frame including a pair of stops, one of which is located proximate each of the respective longitudinal ends of the frame;
- wherein the respective stops extend away from adjacent parts of the frame toward the bumper, such that the respective stops will engage with the rear surface of the bumper when the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle.
21. The mud flap assembly of claim 20, wherein the frame includes a pair of stop assemblies and each of the respective stops are a part of one of the respective stop assemblies; each of the stop assemblies further including a protective cap engaged with the respective stop such that the respective protective cap will come into contact with the bumper when the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle.
22. The mud flap assembly of claim 21, further comprising a protective piece secured to the bumper; wherein the protective piece can be positioned on the bumper such that one of the respective stop assemblies will contact the protective piece when the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle such that the protective piece minimizes abrasions to the bumper caused by the respective stop assembly.
23. The mud flap assembly of claim 17, wherein the mud flap assembly further includes a pair of mud flap support members; wherein each of the respective mud flap panels are secured to the frame, sandwiched between the frame and one of the respective mud flap support members.
24. The mud flap assembly of claim 23, wherein at least one of the mud flap support members is bent so that an included angle between opposing ends of an inside surface of the mud flap support member, which engages the respective mud flap, is from about 175 to about 179 degrees.
25. The mud flap assembly of claim 17, wherein the mud flap assembly further includes a pair of mud flap support members; wherein each of the respective mud flap panels are secured to the frame, sandwiched between the frame and one of the respective mud flap support members.
26. The mud flap assembly of claim 17, wherein the securing assembly allows the hitch assembly to be adjustably secured to the frame so that when the hitch assembly is secured to the frame and to the vehicle, the support flange can be engaged with the top surface of the bumper.
27. The mud flap assembly of claim 25, wherein the frame further includes a plurality of openings including a primary hitch opening having a configuration selected from the group consisting of: a generally U-shaped opening partially surrounded by adjacent elements of the frame; and wherein the securing assembly includes a pair of elongated members that can be secured to the frame and secured to one another to secure the hitch assembly to the frame; and an opening completely surrounded by adjacent elements of the frame; the plurality of openings further including a plurality of frame attachment openings proximate the primary hitch opening; wherein connectors can adjustably connect the pair of elongated members of the securing assembly to the frame and to one another to secure the shaft of the hitch assembly to the frame.
28. The mud flap assembly of claim 27, wherein the mud flap assembly further includes a removable adjustment plate defining a secondary hitch opening for attachment to the frame proximate the primary hitch opening; wherein the adjustment plate includes a plurality of plate openings to enhance the adjustment capabilities of the securing assembly.
29. The mud flap assembly of claim 27, wherein the securing assembly includes a first plurality of nuts and bolts that can secure the respective elongated members to the frame and a second plurality of nuts and bolts that can secure the respective elongated members to one another so as to secure the shaft of the hitch assembly to the frame.
30. The mud flap assembly of claim 27, wherein the frame attachment openings are slots located proximate the primary hitch opening, such bolts can be used to adjustably secure the respective elongated members to the frame proximate the primary hitch opening.
31. The mud flap assembly of claim 17, wherein the frame has a structure that is selected from the group consisting of: a unitary structure; and a multi-part structure in which a plurality of parts are interconnected to form a frame assembly.
32. A mud flap assembly for attachment to a hitch assembly having a ball mount and a vehicle having a rear bumper and a hitch receiver proximate the rear bumper; the rear bumper having a top surface and a rear surface and the hitch assembly having a shaft interconnected to the ball mount for engagement with the receiver; the mud flap assembly comprising:
- a frame, a securing assembly and a pair of mud flap panels; the frame having two longitudinal ends, a rear plate and a top plate, the top plate having an upper surface that is generally perpendicular to a rear surface on the rear plate; the top plate further including a support flange; the rear plate further including a hitch opening; wherein the securing assembly can be adjustably secured to the frame proximate the hitch opening such that the hitch assembly can be adjustably secured to the frame; wherein the shaft can be positioned at least partially within the hitch opening such that the support flange can be engaged with the top surface of the bumper when the shaft is secured to the frame and engaged within the hitch receiver to provide a first point of contact between the mud flap assembly and the vehicle; wherein the flap panels can be separately secured to the frame proximate each of the respective longitudinal ends of the frame; and wherein, when the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle, the support flange can be engaged with the top surface of the bumper to provide a second point of contact between the mud flap assembly and the vehicle when the mud flap assembly is operatively engaged with the vehicle; wherein each of the respective mud flap panels extends above the top plate proximate respective longitudinal ends of the frame at least about two inches.
33. The mud flap assembly of claim 32, wherein each of the respective mud flap panels is secured to the frame proximate opposite longitudinal ends of the frame and extends at least about two inches beyond the end of the respective longitudinal end.
34. The mud flap assembly of claim 32, wherein a distance that separates the respective mud flap panels from one another is from about 3 to about 5 inches.
35. The mud flap assembly of claim 32, the frame including a pair of stop assemblies, one of which is located proximate each of the respective longitudinal ends of the frame; wherein, when the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle, the respective stop assemblies can be engaged with the rear surface of the bumper to provide third and fourth points of contact with the vehicle and stabilized the connection between the mud flap assembly and the vehicle.
36. The mud flap assembly of claim 35, further comprising a protective piece secured to the bumper; wherein the protective piece can be positioned such that one of the respective stop assemblies will contact the protective piece when the mud flap assembly is operatively secured to the vehicle such that the protective piece minimizes abrasions to the bumper caused by the respective stop assembly.
37. The mud flap assembly of claim 32, wherein the mud flap assembly further includes a pair of mud flap support members; wherein each of the respective mud flap panels are secured to the frame, sandwiched between the frame and one of the respective mud flap support members.
38. The mud flap assembly of claim 6, wherein at least one of the mud flap support members is bent so that an included angle between opposing ends of an inside surface of the mud flap support member, which engages the respective mud flap, is from about 175 to about 179 degrees.
Type: Application
Filed: Jan 6, 2016
Publication Date: Apr 28, 2016
Patent Grant number: 9387888
Inventors: Charles M. Schmeichel (Jamestown, ND), Christopher D. Althoff (Jamestown, ND), Shawn J. Wock (Buchanan, ND)
Application Number: 14/989,460